Method of Terminating a Stranded Synthetic Filament Cable

ABSTRACT

A method for straightening, constraining, cutting and terminating a multi-stranded, non-parallel cable. The method includes: (1) dividing the cable into smaller components which are in the size range suitable for the prior art termination technology; (2) creating a termination on the end of each of the smaller components; (3) providing a collector which reassembles the individual terminations back into a single unit; and (4) maintaining alignment between the terminations and the smaller components while the terminations and the collector are in a connected state.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This non-provisional patent application claims the benefit of anearlier-filed provisional application. The provisional application wasassigned Ser. No. 61/561,514. This non-provisional patent applicationalso a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 12/889,981. Allthree applications list the same inventors.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to the field of synthetic cable terminations.More specifically, the invention comprises a method for terminating alarge, multi-stranded cable having at least a partially non-parallelconstruction.

2. Description of the Related Art

Synthetic rope/cable materials have become much more common in recentyears. These materials have the potential to replace many traditionalwire rope assemblies. Examples of synthetic fibers used in cablesinclude KEVLAR, TWARON, TECHNORA, SPECTRA, DYNEEMA, ZYLON/PBO,VECTRAN/LCP, NYLON, POLYESTER, GLASS, and CARBON (fiber). Such fibersoffer a significant increase in tensile strength over traditionalmaterials. However, the unique attributes of the synthetic materialscan—in some circumstances—make direct replacement of traditionalmaterials difficult. This is particularly true for larger cables. Asthose skilled in the art will know, it is not practical to simply scaleup termination technology used in small synthetic cables and expect itto work on large synthetic cables.

This disclosure will employ consistent terminology for the components ofa synthetic cable. The reader should note, however, that the terminologyused within the industry itself is not consistent. This is particularlyapparent when referring to cables of differing sizes. A component of asmall cable will be referred to by one name whereas the analogouscomponent in a larger cable will be referred to by a different name. Inother instances, the same name will be used for one component in a smallcable and an entirely different component in a large cable. In order toavoid confusion, the applicants will present a naming convention for thecomponents disclosed in this application and will use that namingconvention throughout. Thus, terms within the claims should beinterpreted according to the naming convention presented.

First, the terms “rope” and “cable” are synonymous within thisdisclosure. No particular significance should be attached to the use ofone term versus the other. The smallest monolithic component of asynthetic cable will be referred to as a filament. A grouping of suchfilaments will he referred to as a “strand.” The filaments comprising astrand may be twisted, braided, or otherwise gathered together. Strandsare grouped together to form a cable in one or more stages. As anexample, strands may be grouped together into “strand groups” with thestrand groups then being grouped together to form a cable. Additionallayers of complexity may be present for larger cables. A particularlylarge cable might be grouped as follows (from smallest to largest):filament, strand, strand group, strand group group, cable. The term“strand group” is generally only used for massive cables. However, it isnot used consistently in the industry. In any event, the term “strand”is always used to indicate some portion of a cable that is less than theentire cable itself. Many different subdivisions of a cable mayappropriately be called a strand.

The filaments and strands will normally be tension-carrying elements.However, some cables include other elements, such as one or more strandsintended to measure strain. The invention is by no means limited tocables including only tension-carrying elements.

The process of grouping filaments, strands, or strand groups togethercommonly involves weaving, braiding, twisting, or wrapping. For example,it is common to wrap six twisted strands around a twisted straight“core” strand in a helical pattern. Some examples of cable constructionwill aid the reader's understanding.

FIG. 1 shows a prior art cable 10 comprised of seven strands 12. Asingle “core” strand is placed in the center. Six outer strands are thenhelically wrapped about the core strand to form the pattern shown. FIG.2 shows an individual strand 12. Strand 12 is comprised of manyindividual filaments 16 which are also wrapped in a helical pattern.Jacket 14 surrounds and encapsulates the filaments in this particularexample. A jacket is included on some strands and not on others. Ajacket may assume many forms. Some are an extruded covering. Some are ahelical wrapping. Still others are a braided or woven layer of filamentswhich surround the core filaments.

The scale of the strand and filaments of FIG. 2 is significant tounderstanding the present invention. Each individual filament is quitesmall, having a diameter which is typically less than the diameter of ahuman hair. The filaments shown in FIG. 2 are larger in comparison tothe overall cable diameter than is typical for synthetic cables. Thelarger filament diameter is shown for purposes of visual clarity. Strand12 in FIG. 2 might have an overall diameter between 1 and 15 mm. Severalsuch strands may be grouped directly together to make a cable as shownin FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a cable having three levels of grouping. Filaments aregrouped together to make strands 12. Seven strands are then groupedtogether to form a strand group 19. Seven such strand groups 19 are thengrouped together to form cable 10. As explained previously, the term“strand group” may also be referred to as a “strand” (since it is asubdivision of the entire cable). Note that the entire cable may beencompassed by a jacket 14. As for the smaller levels, the jacket mayassume many forms.

The reader will note that the cable as a whole has central axis 30running down its center. The strands 12 generally run in the directionof central axis 30 but they are not all parallel to it. For the exampleof FIG. 3, each strand 12 is wrapped in a helical fashion (except thecore strand of each strand group). Strand groups 19 are shown as beingnearly parallel to central axis 30. However, in other examples thestrand groups may be helically wrapped around the central axis as well.In still other examples they may be braided or woven. In the context ofthis disclosure, the term “non-parallel” simply means that a strand isnot parallel to the cable's overall central axis. The strand may, onaverage, follow the central axis. But, at any given point a normalvector of the strand's cross section is not parallel to the overallcentral axis of the cable. The strand follows a curved path (formed byprocesses such as twisting, braiding, etc.)

Most prior art cables made using synthetic filaments are relativelysmall. The example of FIG. 1 might have an overall diameter between 1 mmand 15 mm. Of course, the individual filaments within the strands arevery small. A synthetic filament is analogous to a single steel wire ina bundled wire rope. However, the individual synthetic filament behavesvery differently in comparison to a piece of steel wire. When such acomparison is made, the synthetic filament is: (1) significantly smallerin diameter; (2) much less stiff (having very little resistance tobuckling and quite vulnerable to bending-induced deformation); and (3)slicker (The synthetic strand has a much lower coefficient of friction).Of these differences, the lower stiffness inherent in the use ofsynthetic filaments is the most significant.

Another significant difference between the individual filamentscomprising a synthetic cable and the steel wires commonly used in wireropes is the scalability of the most basic component. Steel wire istypically created by a drawing process. This allows the wire to becreated in a wide range of sizes. A small diameter steel wire is used tomake a small wire rope and a large diameter steel wire is used to make alarge wire rope. The most basic component of a wire rope—the steelwire—may be easily scaled to match the size of the wire rope. This isnot true for the use of synthetic filaments. A synthetic filament havingsuitable properties is limited to a fairly narrow range of diameters.Thus, the basic component of a synthetic cable is not scalable. A veryfine filament must be used for a small synthetic cable and essentiallythe same size of filament must be used for a large synthetic cable.

In order to carry a useful tensile load any cable material must have atermination (typically on its end but in rare occasions at someintermediate point). The word “termination” means a load-transferringelement attached to the cable that allows the cable to be attached tosomething else. A portion of the cable itself will typically lie withinthe termination. For a traditional cable made of steel wire, atermination is often created by passing the cable around a thimble (withan eye in the middle) and clamping or braiding it bank to itself. Forhigher load situations, the end of a wire rope may be terminated using asocket. The word “socket” in the context of wire rope terminations meansa generally cylindrical steel structure with a conical cavity. Thesheared end of the wire rope is placed in the cavity and the individualwires are then splayed apart. Molten zinc is then poured into the cavityand allowed to solidify (Epoxy resins and other synthetic materials maynow be substituted for the zinc) Such a socket commonly includes an eyeor other feature allowing the cable to be attached to an externalcomponent.

A variation on the socket approach has been successfully employed forsynthetic cables having a relatively small diameter. The device actuallyplaced on the end of a synthetic cable in order to create a terminationis commonly referred to as an “anchor.” FIGS. 4-6 show one process forcreating a termination on a synthetic cable using such an anchor.

In FIG. 4, cable 10 has been cut to a desired length. The individualstrands are very flexible. Accordingly, binder 20 has been added somedistance back from the cut end. This distance is labeled “set-backdistance” 36. The set-back distance is roughly equal to the length offilaments which will be placed within the cavity in a termination. Freefilaments 26 are unbound and free to flex. The binder wraps around thecable and primarily helps it retain a compressed or otherwise boundcross section to better control filament movements during processing.The use of a binder is preferred.

Splayed filaments 34 are placed within the cavity of an anchor. They aregenerally splayed apart before they are placed in the anchor cavity, butthey may also be splayed apart after they are placed in the anchorcavity. In a traditional potting process, the cavity is then filled witha liquid potting compound. The term “potting compound” means anysubstance which transitions from a liquid to a solid over time. A commonexample is a two-part epoxy. The two epoxy components are mixed andpoured or injected into the cavity before they have cross-linked andhardened. Other compounds are cured via exposure to ultraviolet light,moisture, or other conditions.

FIG. 5 shows a section view through such a termination after the pottingcompound has hardened into a solid. Anchor 24 includes a tapered cavitythrough its center. A length of filaments is locked into potted region28 by the hardened potting compound. Free filaments 26 rest outside theanchor.

In the example of FIG. 5, a single strand has attached to a singleanchor. This is not the only possibility and the invention is notlimited to just this one possibility. It is possible to attach multiplestrands to a single anchor (such as by potting a three-strand twistedrope into a single anchor). This would be a connection between a singleanchor and a strand group. It is also possible to divide a single strandinto a plurality of substrands and attach each of the sub-strands to ananchor. Thus, one strand could be attached to two or more anchors.

An anchor attached to a cable typically includes a load-transmittingfeature designed to transmit a tensile load on the cable to someexternal component. This could be a hook or an external thread. As suchfeatures are well understood in the art, they have not been illustrated.

Those skilled in the art will know that an anchor may be attached to acable by many means other than potting. Another well-known example is africtional engagement where the splayed strands are compressed betweentwo adjacent surfaces. A “spike and cone” connection, sometimes referredto as a “barrel and socket” connection, attaches an anchor to a cableusing this approach. An example of such a connection is shown in FIG. 39(and described in more detail subsequently).

Another approach to creating a termination is to cast a composite “plug”on the end filaments of a cable. The plug is preferably cast in adesirable shape that allows it to be easily attached to an externalcomponent.

The cable of FIG. 5 is relatively small—having a diameter between 1 mmand 10 mm. The potting process and other mechanical termination meanswork fairly well for such cables. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of acompleted assembly where the anchor is attached via potting. Anchor 24and potted region 28 collectively form termination 32 on one end ofcable 10. The reader should note that cable 10 is parallel to anchor 24.The filaments within the cable may be non-parallel (They may for examplebe helically wrapped or braided). However, the overall centerline of thecable is parallel to the centerline of the anchor. This constraint issignificant, because the ultimate strength of synthetic cables decreasessignificantly if the freely flexing portion of the cable is angularlyoffset with respect to the anchor. The desired alignment becomes a moredifficult problem for larger cables—as will be seen.

FIG. 7 shows a larger cable 10. The example shown has a diameter of 50mm (Even larger synthetic cables are presently in use). Braided jacket18 surrounds and encloses smaller strand components and strand groupultimately individual filaments. Binder 20 is placed around the cableand the jacket is removed for loose portion 22. For a cable of thissize, loose portion 22 is comprised of tens of thousands to millions ofindividual filaments. The filaments are very flexible, having astiffness that is similar to human hair. The loose portion is akin tothe head of a mop—though it is in reality even less organized and muchmore flexible than the head of a mop.

It is very difficult to employ the prior art termination process for thesynthetic filament cable shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 8 shows an anchor 24which is sized for this cable. The anchor has a diameter ofapproximately 150 mm. Unlike larger steel wires used in the prior art,the loose filaments are not stiff enough to remain organized when theyare placed in the cavity within anchor 24. It is very difficult tomaintain any type of organization while the liquid potting compound isadded to the cavity (or when any other type of termination technology isused, with the “spike and cone” frictional type of anchor being anotherexample). The filaments tend to lose the aligned orientation needed toproduce a consistent termination. In this potted termination example,the filaments when oriented upward tend to become a disorganized tangle,and are generally inconsistent in alignment. The alignment issue worsenswith increasing scale as the filament volume and termination length bothincrease.

The result is a termination which commonly fails well below the ultimatetensile strength of the cable—obviously an undesirable result. Inaddition, the disorganized nature of the strands within the cavityproduces a substantial variation in strength from one termination to thenext. In other words, the process of terminating a large synthetic cableis not predictable nor is it repeatable.

One prior art approach to this problem has been to subdivide the cavitywithin anchor 24 using some type of insert. The insert subdivides thetapered cavity into several wedge-shaped sections. The availablefilaments are then divided evenly among the wedge-shaped sections. Thisapproach helps improve certain performance characteristics but does notaddress the majority of significant processing challenges inherent withlarge synthetic cables.

The present invention solves the problem of larger cables by (1)dividing the cable into smaller components which are in the size rangesuitable for the prior art termination technology; (2) providing acollector which reassembles the individual terminations back into asingle unit; and (3) maintaining reasonable alignment between theterminations and the smaller cable components while the terminations are“captured” within the collector.

The goal of maintaining alignment between the terminations and thesmaller cable components is significant. Some additional explanationregarding the need for good alignment between the strands and theanchors used to terminate them may aid the reader's understanding. FIGS.9 and 10 illustrate the result of flexing a strand 12 before or duringthe termination process.

In FIG. 9, strand 12 has been flexed. Jacket 14 has slipped somewhatwith respect to filaments 16 it contains. Filaments have also slippedwith respect to each other. In FIG. 10, the same strand has beenstraightened. The reader will observe that some of the filament slippageremains. This is the result of the fact that synthetic filaments havevery low stiffness. When they slip relative to one another, there is nosignificant restoring force. A bend or kink may exist in an individualfilament, but little restoring force is produced. For a prior art wirecable, the bending or kinking of a wire produces a significant restoringforce. When a wire rope bends it generally returns to the same stateonce the bend is removed. This is not the case for cables made ofsynthetic filaments. The alignment issues occur with or without a jacketaround the strand. Further, the alignment differential increases as thesize of the cable increases. The reader will thereby perceive theimportance of keeping a synthetic cable and/or its component strandsstraight in the vicinity of the end when creating a termination.

It is also important to maintain alignment between a strand and theanchor used to terminate it. The region where the filaments exit theanchor (often called the “neck” of the anchor) is significant. If thefreely flexing portion of the synthetic-filament strand is bent withrespect to the anchor when loaded, a large stress riser will form in theneck region. The freely flexing portion bends quite easily and it is notable to withstand significant lateral loads without badly reducing theoverall strength of the strand/termination. Maintaining the desiredalignment for these large cables is a more complex problem—withprocessing and performance issues increasing with increasing scale. Thepresent invention presents a solution to these problems.

The present invention seeks to improve both processing and performanceissues. The main processing advantage of the invention is the fact thatit allows the use of well-developed and repeatable “small cable”termination technologies to be used with larger cables. The mainperformance advantages of the invention result from the fact that “smallcable” terminations produce good repeatability and good overallstrength, along with the fact that non-uniform loads are decoupledand/or alignment between the strands and their respective terminationsare improved. The invention “collects” multiple small cable terminationsinto a single collector, thereby allowing the advantages of a smallcable termination to exist in a larger cable.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention comprises a method for terminating amulti-stranded, non-parallel cable. The method includes: (1) dividingthe cable into smaller components which are in the size range suitablefor the prior art termination technology; (2) creating a termination onthe end of each of the smaller components; (3) providing a collectorwhich reassembles the individual terminations back into a single unit;and (4) maintaining reasonable alignment between the terminations andthe smaller components while the terminations and the collector are in aconnected state.

The collector acts as a unified termination for the cable as a whole.However, each strand or group of strands has been cut, positioned, andlocked into a relatively small termination for which strand/anchoralignment is maintained. The relatively large cable is broken intosmaller components so that consistent and repeatable terminationtechnology known for use in small cables can be applied to create atermination for a much larger cable. The collector reassembles thesmaller components in a manner that minimizes bending stresses in thetransition from each anchor to its respectivestrand/strand-group/sub-strand.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view, showing a prior art cable made of sevenstrands.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view, showing an individual strand comprised ofmany synthetic filaments encased within a jacket.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view, showing a prior art cable made of sevenstrand groups, each of which strand groups includes seven strandswrapped in a helical pattern.

FIG. 4 is an elevation view, showing a small synthetic cable during theprior art termination process.

FIG. 5 is a sectional elevation view, showing the synthetic cable ofFIG. 4 after it has been potted into an anchor.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view, showing the completed termination.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view, showing a larger prior art cable.

FIG. 8 is a sectional elevation view, showing an attempt to use priorart termination technology on the cable of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view, showing a prior art strand being flexed.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view, showing the prior art strand of FIG. 9after it has been straightened.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a prior art synthetic cable.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view, showing the cable of FIG. 11 after abinder has been added.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view, showing the separation of the strandsbetween the cut end of the cable and the binder.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view, showing the addition of a binder to eachstrand of the cable of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a detailed perspective view, showing the addition of ananchor to each of the individual strands of the cable of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view, showing the cable of FIG. 14 after ananchor has been added to each individual strand.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view, showing a collector configured for usewith the cable of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18A is an elevation view, showing the collector of FIG. 17.

FIG. 18B is a sectional elevation view, showing the collector of FIG.17.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view, showing the collector and the cableassembled together.

FIG. 20 is a sectional view, showing a strand misaligned with itsanchor.

FIG. 21 is an elevation view, showing an alignment fixture for use inthe potting process.

FIG. 22 is an elevation view, showing an alignment fixture for use inthe potting process.

FIG. 23 is an elevation view, showing the assembly of FIG. 19.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view, showing another embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 25 is a sectional view, showing details of the stem ball assemblyused in the embodiment of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a sectional view, showing the stem ball of FIG. 26 placed inthe collector.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view, showing the assembly of FIG. 24 with mostof the helically wrapped strands removed.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view, showing another embodiment for thecollector.

FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view, showing yet another embodimentin which the anchors combine to actually form the collector.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view, showing the embodiment of FIG. 29 in anassembled state.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view, showing still another embodiment for thecollector.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view, showing still another embodiment for thecollector.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view, showing the embodiment of FIG. 32 fromanother vantage point.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view, showing the use of a helical wrap tocreate a jacket.

FIG. 35 is a sectional view, showing the inclusion of a fillet near thethroat of an anchor.

FIG. 36 is a sectional view, showing the inclusion of a flexibleextension near the throat of an anchor.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view, showing another embodiment of a collectorand an alignment fixture.

FIG. 38 is a sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 37, showing someinternal details.

FIG. 39 is a sectional view, showing a spike-and-cone anchor configuredfor use in the present invention.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view, showing a different embodiment of acollector.

FIG. 41 is an elevation view, showing the assembly of FIG. 40.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view, showing the assembly of FIGS. 39 and 40from a different vantage point.

REFERENCE NUMERALS IN THE DRAWINGS

10 cable 12 strand 14 jacket 16 filament 18 braided jacket 19 strandgroup strand group 20 binder 22 loose portion 24 anchor 26 freefilaments 28 potted region 30 central axis 32 termination 34 splayedfilaments 36 set-back distance 40 cut end 42 collector 44 anchorreceiver 46 cable receiver 48 attachment feature 50 centerline 52alignment fixture 54 threaded engagement 56 coupler 58 threadedengagement 62 stem 64 ball 66 spherical socket 68 channel 70 core 72pivot joint 74 pivot joint 76 receiver 78 fastener 80 socket 82 slot 84threaded shaft 86 alignment channel 88 alignment fixture 90 core strand92 injection passage 94 strand cavity 96 arcuate shoulder 98 arcuateshoulder 100 internal passage 102 bolt 104 fillet 106 flexible extension108 cone 110 loading flange 112 hex head 114 threaded engagement 116 nut

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The inventive method can be used for a synthetic cable of almost anysize, but it is most advantageous for cables having a medium to largediameter (as the processing and performance benefits over the prior artincrease with increasing scale). In the context of synthetic cables,this would be an overall diameter of approximately 15 mm or more. Theinvention is most advantageous for use with cables having at least apartially non-parallel structure. However, the invention offers someadvantages for cables having even a 100% parallel construction. Whilemany variations are possible, FIGS. 11 through 19 explain the basicsteps of the process.

FIG. 11 shows a seven strand synthetic cable. In this construction, sixouter strands 12 are helically wrapped around a single core strand. Theresulting cable 10 therefore has a substantially non-parallelconstruction, meaning that many that the outer strands are not parallelto the central axis of the cable as a whole. The present invention seeksto attach anchors to a substantial portion of the strands and in mostinstances attach anchors to all of the load-bearing strands. In thespecific example of FIG. 11, anchors will be attached to the six outerstrands but not the core strand (which will be attached directly toanother component instead).

FIG. 12 shows the same cable with binder 20 in position a set-backdistance 36 from cut end 40. The binder is simplistically represented astwo blocks clamped together over the cable. It may assume many differentforms, so long as it limits or reduces the ability of the individualstrands 12 to move with respect to each other during processing (inlarger cables it may restrict the movement of strand groups or groups ofstrand groups). The binder may assume many different forms, includingtape, string, an extruded or overbraided jacket, and even an adhesiveinfused into a limited section of the cable. FIG. 34 shows one exampleof a binder. Jacket 14 is helically wrapped around all of or a portionof the cable. The jacket in this example is an adhesive tape capable ofapplying some compression to the strand, thereby limiting filamentmovement during processing by reducing unwanted strand movement. In someinstances a strand will come with a binder already installed in the formof a compressive jacket. In those cases a binder will not need to beadded. Rather, a portion of the existing binder in proximity to thetermination may need to be removed.

It is not practical to add a termination to the cut end of each of theindividual strands 12 while they are still grouped together. FIG. 13shows the same assembly after the cut ends of the six outer strands havebeen urged apart and away from the core strand. Once urged apart, eachindividual strand is essentially a small synthetic cable to which theprior art termination methods can be applied (such as potting).

FIG. 14 shows a closer view of the ends of the strands 12. A binder 20has been applied to each—with the binder being separated from the cutend by set-back distance 36. These smaller binders, like the largerbinder used for the cable itself, are intended to help maintain filamentalignment during processing. Strand 12, for example, may be a braidedstrand group requiring some form of added binder to prevent unwantedfilament movement during processing. The free filaments are placedwithin an anchor cavity and splayed to create splayed filaments 34.Liquid potting compound is then placed within the cavity and allowed toharden. Of course, if the binder was a part of the strand structure andapplied to the entire strand (such as an extruded thermoplastic jacket)a length of jacket material would simply be removed from the end.

FIG. 15 shows the same strands 12 after anchors 24 have been installedon all except core strand 90. Binder 20 has been applied to core strand90 but it has not yet been potted (for reasons which will be explainedsubsequently). The reader will observe that the outer strands retain asomewhat-relaxed helical configuration even when they have been urgedaway from the core strand. This fact is important. If the anchors werereoriented to be parallel with the overall centerline of the cable, theneach of the outer strands would have to bend as it entered the anchor.As described previously, such a bend under load is undesirable. Once theanchor is attached, the alignment between the filaments entering theanchor and the anchor itself is established. Movement may then beallowed. However, while the anchors and the collector are in a connectedstate, proper alignment is preferably maintained between the filaments,the anchor, and the collector.

The present invention divides the cable into smaller constituents inorder to apply repeatable and strong “small cable” terminationtechniques to the smaller constituents. The smaller constituents arethen recombined using a collector. The nature of this collector isimportant as it must accomplish the recombination without introducingunwanted bending stresses or strand misalignment.

FIG. 17 shows a collector 42 which is configured for use with the cableof FIG. 16. The collector includes six anchor receivers 44 around itsperimeter. Each anchor receiver 44 is joined to a cable receiver 46.Both the anchor receivers 44 and the cable receivers 46 intersect theexterior of the collector.

FIG. 18 is an elevation view of collector 42. The reader will observethat each anchor receiver and cable receiver is concentric about acenterline 50. The reader will also observe that each centerline 50 isangularly offset from the axis of radial symmetry for the collector as awhole. This offset makes each anchor receiver and cable receiverparallel to the helical path of one of the outer strands it ispositioned to receive. A helical path has a treed “helix angle” at anygiven cross section along its length. If the centerline 50 of eachanchor receiver 44 is aligned with this helix angle, then the anchorplaced within that anchor receiver will be aligned with the strand towhich it is attached.

The reader should bear in mind that some small errors in the anglesemployed are permissible. For example, depending on the cable design, a1-5 degree misalignment will not typically degrade the cable'sperformance to any significant extent. However, the goal is to maximizealignment between each anchor and the strand to which it is attached.

FIG. 18B shows a sectional elevation view through collector 42—takenthrough the center of attachment feature 48. Strand cavity 94 isincluded in the portion of the collector opposite the attachmentfeature. This strand cavity is configured to receive the splayed strandsof core strand 90 so that the core strand can be terminated directlyinto the collector itself.

Injection passage 92 is provided so that liquid potting compound can beinjected into strand cavity 94. The air within the cavity can be ventedout the open end of the strand cavity during the potting process.Optionally, a separate vent can be provided. The reader should note thatthe concept of attaching some strands to separate anchors and at leastone strand directly to the collector itself is somewhat unusual. Itwould be more typical for this embodiment to provide anchors for allstrands and attach the anchors to the collector. However, the attachmentof one or more strands directly to the anchor is certainly within thescope of the present invention. Also within the scope of the presentinvention is the concept of employing different attachment mechanismsfor different strands being gathered into a single collector.

For example, one strand could be attached to the collector via itsanchor sliding into a pocket in the collector. A second strand could beattached to the collector via its anchor having a threaded stud thatpasses through a hole in the collector—with a nut being attached to theprotruding portion of the threaded stud. The connections between anchorand collector could occur in multiple configurations and at multipledifferent levels. A first ring of anchors could be attached to a portionof the collector nearest the freely-flexing portion of the cable. Asecond ring of anchors could be attached to the collector in a positionfurther away from the freely flexing portion of the cable. This couldrequire stands of slightly differing lengths, but the need for differinglengths can be accommodated in the manufacturing and assembly processes.

Turning to FIG. 19, the assembly of the collector to the cable for thisparticular embodiment will now be explained in detail. Collector 42 isplaced in the center of the six outer strands and moved toward thetightly wrapped portion of the cable (Binder 20—as shown in FIG. 13—ispreferably left in place to help stabilize the strands during thisprocess). Returning to FIG. 17, the reader will note that if thecollector is moved toward the tightly wrapped portion of the cable untilanchors 24 lie around attachment fixture 48, the user can press thestrands inward and into the six cable receivers 46. If the collector isthen urged away from the tightly wrapped portion of the cable (in thedirection of attachment feature 48) then anchors 24 will slide intoanchor receivers 44 and become trapped therein.

FIG. 19 shows this state. Each anchor 24 is trapped within collector 24.From the geometry seen, it is apparent that so long as tension ismaintained on the cable the anchors will stay in place. Some additionalattachment or entrapment features or mechanisms—such as an overallenclosure body, mounting brackets, interlocking features, adhesives orclips can be used to ensure that they remain in position even when notension is present. FIG. 19 obviously represents a simple version of acollector, but it serves well to illustrate the operative principles ofthe invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that theembodiment of FIG. 19 illustrates one possible approach to connectingthe anchors to the collector, and that many other approaches will occurto someone skilled in mechanical design. For example, the collector maysimply include a series of holes while the anchors may include athreaded shaft sized to it through these holes and then be secured witha nut.

With the collector and the outer strands now joined in a suitablefashion, core strand 90 can be potted into strand cavity 94 within thecollector. The completed assembly then acts as a unified whole. Stilllooking at FIG. 19, the reader should note that the individual strandsare aligned with each individual anchor 24 at the point where the freelyflexing portion of the strands enters the anchor. This feature isimportant to reducing the unwanted bending stresses. The order ofoperations is not particularly significant. One could just as easily potthe core strand into the collector first.

FIG. 20 shows a sectional view through a prior art anchor 24 with apotted portion 28 of strand 12 locked therein. If the strand is bent asshown with respect to the anchor, one may easily see how stress willrise in the “throat” region where free filaments 26 pass into pottedregion 28. The reader will also perceive the advantages of the collectorshown in the preceding figures in this respect. It eliminates or atleast largely reduces such bending stresses.

Returning to FIG. 17, the reader should be aware that attachment feature48 can assume many different forms. Anything that facilitates theconnection of the collector to an external component serves thispurpose. An eye is shown. The concept of an attachment feature wouldalso include an externally threaded boss, a boss with a hole havinginternal threads, external threads on the outer surface of the collectoritself, multiple threaded holes on the collector, and even a simpleflange on the collector which could bear against an external surface.

During the process of locking each strand into an anchor it ispreferable to maintain the proper alignment. The termination processshown in the examples provided is a typical potting process, but anytermination process may be used. Other common examples are mechanicalinterlocks such as a “spike and cone” fastener, external compressionsdevices, and hybrid resin/compression devices. FIG. 39 shows aspike-mi-cone termination configured for use in the present invention.Anchor 24 includes a tapered strand cavity 94 as for the pottedversions. However, rather than securing the filaments within the cavityusing potting compound, the filaments are compressed and frictionallyengaged by screwing cone 108 into the cavity. The strands are furthercompressed and frictionally engaged by applying tension to the cable(and thereby further “seating” the cone). Cone 108 is linked to anchor24 by threaded engagement 114. The user employs a separate tool toengage and turn hex head 112—thereby securing the anchor to the end ofstrand 12. Any suitable feature may be used to transmit tensile forcesfrom the anchor to the collector. An external thread is one example.Loading flange 110 is another example.

For any of these approaches, alignment within each of the terminatedstrand group components is important (particularly in the region wherethe flexible filaments interact with the inflexible anchor). The desiredalignment can be created in a wide variety of ways

Another type of alignment that may be added in the practice of thepresent invention is the alignment of the filaments within a strand andthe anchor being attached to the strand during the process of creatingthe termination. FIG. 21 shows a simplified depiction of an alignmentfixture. Alignment fixture 52 is designed to engage strand 12 in thefreely flexing portion and to engage binder 20. This fixture holds thebinder and the strand in proximity to splayed filaments 34 in alignment.The alignment fixture preferably restricts relative movement in all sixdegrees of freedom (X, Y, Z, roll, pitch, and yaw).

A more comprehensive version of alignment fixture 52 is shown in FIG.22. This version grips the freely flexing portion of strand 12, binder22, and anchor 24. Placing the fixture as shown ensures alignment of thecritical components during the termination process. If for examplepotting compound is used, the alignment fixture is preferably retainedin position until the potting compound has transitioned into a solid.Although the use of an alignment fixture during the process of affixingan anchor to the end of a cable offers advantages in certaincircumstances, the reader should bear in mind that the present inventionmay be carried out without the use of such a fixture. In manyembodiments, no alignment fixture will be used.

Of course, one the termination process for an individual strand iscompleted the fixture can be removed. While one would not wish torepeatedly bend the strand after the anchor is in place, it is much moreable to withstand bending.

Once suitable terminations are added to the strands, the strands areplaced within a collector. FIG. 23 shows a view of the anchors 24 afterthey have been placed in collector 42 (for the specific embodiment ofFIGS. 12-19). The reader will note again how the angular displacement ofcenterline 50 generally aligns the anchor with the free portion of thestrand. This minimizes bending stresses and allows the maximumperformance (in terms of tensile strength) from the completed assembly.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-19 serves to illustrate the componentsand exemplary steps of the proposed invention. However, many differentand widely varied embodiments will be needed in actual applications, andthe embodiment that is suitable for a particular application will dependgreatly on the nature of the cable to be terminated and the overalltermination design. FIGS. 24-27 show another embodiment that is usefulfor cases where the strands on the cable's exterior are routed andcollected in one manner and the strands near the cable's core are routedand collected in a different manner.

Cable 10 in FIG. 24 has a relatively large core consisting of a braidedstrand group that is independently jacketed and wrapped by 16 helicalstrands. The two major components (core strands and helical strands)respond differently when tension is applied to the cable. Tension on thecore strands with this particular construction will not generallyproduce a resulting torque. Tension on the outer helical strands, on theother hand, will produce significant torque and will also tend to varythe helix angle. This phenomenon can make the determination of theprecise angular offset for each anchor within collector 42 difficult. Inthe embodiment shown, the problem is solved by using ball and socketjoints for each anchor. These allow the helix angle to “float” withinthe range of motion allowed by the ball and socket joint.

Collector 42 has a central section which includes attachment feature 48(In this case a large boss with an external thread). The collector alsohas a large flange which is used to attach the numerous anchors in aradial array. Each anchor is attached to the flange using a ball andsocket joint so that the angle between the collector and each individualstrand can vary as needed to prevent bending.

The reader will note in this example that the collector gathers strandsof differing sizes and configurations. The braided core strand or strandgroup may be potted as a whole into an internal cavity within thecollector (or potted into another object that attaches to thecollector). The helical strands are significantly smaller and each liesin its own unique orientation with respect to the collector.

FIG. 25 is a detailed sectional view through one termination used for ahelical strand in the embodiment of FIG. 24. Strand 12 is potted intoanchor 24 as explained previously. Anchor 24 is joined to coupler 56 bythreaded engagement 54. Stem 62 is joined to coupler 56 by threadedengagement 58. Finally, ball 64 is provided on the end of stem 62.

FIG. 26 shows the assembly of FIG. 25 attached to the collector. Stem 62is placed into spherical socket 66 with its threaded portion stickingout through channel 68. Ball 64 hears against spherical socket 66 incollector 42. The threaded portion of stem 62 is threaded into coupler56 to complete the assembly. The reader will note how the ball andsocket joint allows the angle between strand 12 and collector 42 to varywithin a modest range. The reader will also note how the threadedengagement between stem 62 and coupler 56 allows the tension of each ofthe helically wrapped strands to be adjusted individually.

FIG. 27 shows the assembly with all but one of the helically wrappedstrands removed in order to aid visualization. Core 70 is pottedcollectively into a central cavity within collector 42. Each helicalstrand 12 is then attached to the collector 42 using the previouslydescribed ball and socket joints. One the appropriate tension is appliedto the helical strands, the cable will act as a unified whole.

Adding a tensioning or length adjustment feature to better align certainstrand positions may be preferred in some cases. For example, thoseskilled in the art will realize that both the particular cable used andthe termination method(s) used will entail some reasonable manufacturingtolerances, and these tolerances may need to be accounted for in lockingthe terminations into the collector. The inclusion of adjustmentfeatures allows the proper balancing of loads among the strands. Amongother advantages, the ability to individually adjust the tension on eachof the helical strands allows the termination to compensate formanufacturing tolerances and ensure that the cable is loaded correctlyand evenly.

It is even possible to “load set” such an assembly. For some complexassemblies it is preferable to apply a significant amount of tension andthen readjust the tension adjustments on each of the helical strands.This operation may even be performed iteratively for a large cable. Theball and socket joints allow the helical strands to adjust themselves sothat alignment is maintained between the freely flexing portions of thestrands and the anchor into which each strand is terminated.

Core 70 has been illustrated as a unified collection of parallel strandsor filaments. In other embodiments the core may be a grouping of strandsof differing configuration (braided, twisted, etc.) and even differingsizes.

Of course, other mechanical attachment devices can be used to ensure thedesired alignment between the individual strands and the anchors thatare used to attach them to the collector. FIG. 28 shows anotherembodiment. In this embodiment, each anchor for the exterior strands isattached to collector 42 by a joint which pivots in two perpendicularaxes. The reader will observe how each attachment includes pivot joint72 and pivot joint 74. These two pivot joints accommodate any neededangular displacement to ensure that each strand enters its anchor in analigned state.

FIGS. 29 and 30 show a completely different approach to the unificationof the anchors and the collector. In this embodiment, the anchor is aportion of the collector. In FIG. 29, the reader will observe that threeindividual strands 12 are each potted into an anchor 24. Each anchor 24includes attachment features allowing it to be joined to a neighboringanchor. Each anchor includes a threaded receiver 76 and a through-holesized to accommodate a fastener 78. Three such fasteners 78 can be usedto join the three anchors 24 together into a unified collector.

FIG. 30 shows this embodiment with the three anchors 24 joined to form acollector 42. Binder 20 may be left in place to help secure thetransition between the helically wrapped portion of the cable and thestraight strands leading to collector 42. Optionally, the potting cavitywithin each anchor could be given an angular offset so that the helicalpath of the strands is generally maintained into the anchors themselves.

FIG. 31 shows still another embodiment for the anchors and thecollector. The cable in this case is a twisted assembly of three strands(having no core). This “core-less” construction is similar to manybraided ropes. In FIG. 31, each anchor 24 has a spherical exterior.Collector 42 has three sockets 80 and slots 82. The three anchors 24 areplaced into the three sockets 80, with the strands passing through slots82. When tension is applied to the cable anchors 24 will naturally beurged toward the center of collector 42 and will thereby be retained inposition.

An advantage of de-coupling the strands from the core is the ability tocreate independent alignment at the strand level. Several examples ofthis advantage have been described previously, including the abilitymaintain a helix angle for an anchor connected to a helically-wrappedstrand. It is also possible to provide strand-level alignment for othergeometries, including nested and counter-rotating helices. The sameprinciples apply to braided ropes, twisted ropes, served ropes, and anyother constructions where tensions and/or alignment may vary betweenstrands. This de-coupling of load components can create significantperformance advantages, particularly in large ropes with non-uniformlyparallel strands and/or dynamic applications where loads may vary fromstrand to strand during use.

It is also possible to provide an embodiment where a helical strand pathis gradually modified into a path which is parallel to the overallcenterline of the cable. A gradual transition from a helical path to astraight one can be made without introducing unacceptable stress.However, it has traditionally been difficult to create the desiredgradual transition. The present invention is able to create such agradual transition using many different features and combinations offeatures, and this is a significant advantage.

FIG. 32 shows an embodiment in which helically-wrapped strands aregradually transitioned to a parallel path and aligned with an anchor (asthe anchor lies within the collector) before being joined to acollector. Collector 42 includes alignment fixture 88. The reader willobserve that alignment fixture includes a plurality of radially-spacedalignment channels 86. Each alignment channel gradually straightens froma helical path into a parallel one so that rotational cable movements(torsion) can be unified or otherwise restricted to axial movements atthe termination of each strand.

In the embodiment shown, alignment fixture 88 is preferably spaced adistance part from the attachment flange on the collector itself. Eachhelically wrapped strand is passed through an alignment channel beforebeing connected to the flange. This form of strand positioning preventseach strand from altering its path at the anchor point during loading.As with other forms of strand alignment, those skilled in the art willknow that such positioning can be carried out in many different ways.Each anchor is attached to the flange using a tension nut on the end ofa threaded shaft 84. This feature allows the tension on each individualstrand to be adjusted independently.

FIG. 33 shows the same assembly from a different vantage point. Thereader will note that each tension nut is accessible. An attachmentfeature is provided in the center of coupler 42. As for the priorembodiments, the completed assembly acts like a unified whole. A userneed only attach the cable using the attachment feature without havingany concern for the operation of the internal components. In thisexample it would typically be preferable to include additional retainingor entrapment features to the strands to help ensure they maintainposition under low load. An example of this would be an attached platewith holes that the strands are pre-fed into prior to terminating.

FIG. 33 also provides a good example of how the tension on each strandmay be individually adjusted. If even tension is desired, a torquewrench may he used to sequentially tighten the nuts shown. Anotherapproach is to provide an annular “washer-style” load cell beneath eachnut. Each of these load cells can then transmit strain information to adata collection unit. This information assists in properly tighteningthe cable and in monitoring the cable's loading conditions over time.

The ability to individually adjust the tension on the strands allowssome of the inventive process to be simplified. As explained previously,it is generally preferable to straighten a portion of a cable before itis cut to length. It is also preferable to provide a binder that securesthe cable and prevents unwanted slippage between filaments and strandsduring the cutting and terminating processes. While the use of a binderon a straight cable is certainly ideal, the ability to individuallytighten the strands allows these steps to be eliminated in somecircumstances. One can simply cut the cable in whatever state itpresently lies. The terminations are then added to each strand andgathered into the collector.

It is very likely that placing a load on the cable will then producesignificantly different strand-to-strand loads. However, a user caniteratively tighten the tension-adjusting devices in order to even outthe load. Thus, even though the cable may start in an “unbalanced”state, the ability to individually adjust the tension on each strandallows the user to achieve balance.

In the illustrations of FIGS. 32 and 33, the strands are exposed as theytravel from alignment fixture 88 to collector 42. This is desirable forpurposes of illustration, but may be undesirable in actual operation.For example, the assembly of FIG. 32 might be used for a large mooringline. Such a line might be dragged laterally across an abrasive concretesurface while in use. Thus, it is preferable to contain the strands,anchors, and other hardware within a protective enclosure. A shroud maybe provided for this purpose. In the embodiment of FIG. 32, the shroudmight assume the form of a cylindrical enclosure encompassing thestrands, anchors, couplers, etc. The shroud might be part of thecollector or might be a separate piece that is secured in place usingbolts or other means.

In some embodiments the collector itself may contain a portion of theguiding geometry and the alignment fixture may contain a portion of theguiding geometry. The alignment function can be performed in thecollector, the anchor, a separate alignment fixture, or some combinationamong these.

FIGS. 37 and 38 show an embodiment in which some of the alignmentfunction occurs in the collector and some occurs in a separate alignmentfixture. FIG. 38, cable 10 consists of four twisted strands (with nocore). An anchor 24 is affixed to the end of each strand. Collector 42collects all four anchors 24 and transmits a tensile load via attachmentfixture 48.

Collector 44 includes four author receivers 44 (two are visible in FIG.37). A cable receiver 46 extends out the bottom of each anchor receiver.FIG. 38 shows a sectional view through the center of the assembly ofFIG. 37. The assembly process starts with alignment fixture beingdisconnected from collector 42. The four anchors are passed through thelower portion of internal passage 100 through collector 42. Each anchoris then placed in an anchor receiver 44 (sliding each strand laterallyinward through a cable receiver 46). The reader will note that eachanchor receiver includes a shelf that transmits load to the anchor. Inother words, if tension is placed on the cable the anchor cannot movedownward in the orientation shown in the view.

Once the four anchors are in place, alignment fixture 88 is moved upwardagainst the base of collector 42. The alignment fixture is preferablysecured to the base of the collector using conventional devices—such asbolts 102.

Collector 42 and alignment fixture 88 contain features intended to guidethe cable through a smooth transition as described previously. Eachcable receiver 46 includes an arcuate shoulder 96. Likewise, internalpassage 100 in alignment fixture 88 contains arcuate shoulder 98 (Thearcuate shoulder is a revolved profile that defines the shape of theinternal passage). These two arcuate shoulders—in combination—guide eachstrand from its exit from the anchor to the point where it joins thetwisted cable. A smooth transition is thereby created.

Some embodiments may also include misalignment-accommodating features inthe anchor itself. Such features relieve or reduce bending stresses andmay be used solely to produce the needed strand alignment, to reduce thecomplexity of accompanying alignment devices, or to simply minimizestresses resulting from some other misalignment occurring when aparticular design is loaded. FIGS. 35 and 36 provide examples of suchfeatures. In FIG. 35, large exit fillet 104 has been added to the anchorin the region where the strand exits the anchor. In the event of amisalignment, free elements 26 will not he forced against a sharpcorner. Instead, they will be able to bend gently around the radius ofthe fillet. The reader will note that the bending region is distal tothe transition region. This separation allows for bending. In effect,the anchor itself is controlling the bending region and the geometry iscontrolling the bending stresses.

FIG. 36 shows an anchor in which flexible extension 106 has been added.The flexible extension is made of a pliable material (similar to astrain relief used in electrical cords). When a misalignment occurs,flexible extension 106 prevents the formation of concentrated stressnear the critical transition between the filaments lying within theanchor and the freely flexing filaments.

FIGS. 40-42 show still another embodiment of the present invention thatoptionally incorporates the misalignment-accommodating features such asshown in FIGS. 35 and 36. FIG. 40 shows a collector 42 that isessentially a flat plate. The plate includes 8 through holes thataccommodate 8 anchors 24.

Each anchor incorporates a threaded stud. These protrude throughcollector 42. A nut 116 is attached to each threaded stud on eachanchor. The nuts are tightened in order to adjust the tension on thestrands attached to each anchor.

FIG. 41 shows the same assembly in an elevation view. The reader willobserve that collector 42 is not completely flat. Instead, itincorporates a domed shape on one side. The through-hole sized to accepteach anchor is drilled in a direction that is normal to the surface ofthe domed side. This fact causes the eight anchors 24 to be angledinward toward the central axis of the cable.

FIG. 42 shows the same assembly from the cable side of the collector 42.The reader will note that each of the anchors 24 includes a fillet inthe area where the strand exits the anchor. The fillet is analogous tothe one shown in the section view of FIG. 35. The presence of thesefillets allows the angle of the individual strands to vary somewhatwithout placing undue stress on the strand.

The cable shown in this example is generally referred to as an “8-strandhollow braid.” It is a braided assembly of 8 strands basing no coreelement. When such a cable is loaded, the angle formed between eachstrand and the collector will vary. The presence of a fillet in eachanchor (or other suitable bend-accommodating feature) is thereforepreferable.

Looking still at FIG. 42, the reader may wish to know how the collectoris connected to an external device. The central passage shown throughthe middle of collector 42 is useful for making external connections. Alarge threaded stud equipped with a flange can be attached to collector42 by passing the threaded stud through the central passage in thecollector and bringing the flange attached to the threaded stud upagainst the flat surface facing the viewer in FIG. 42.

Looking again at FIG. 41, those skilled in the art will realize that thedome shape provided for this particular example is not essential. Onecould instead use a completely flat plate. The angled holes would stillbe made for the anchors (using the same angles shown for the domedexample). A shoulder for each nut 116 could then be created bycounter-boring each of the holes to a small depth using a square-endmill. The nuts would then bear against these shoulders rather than theexterior surface of the collector itself.

Accordingly, the reader will understand that the proposed inventionallows a relatively large cable made of synthetic filaments to heterminated using convention methods suitable for small cables. Theinventive method and hardware involves: 1) dividing the cable intosmaller components which are in the size range suitable for the priorart termination technology; (2) creating a termination on the end ofeach of the smaller components; (3) providing a collector whichreassembles the individual terminations back into a single unit; and (4)maintaining alignment between the terminations and the smaller cablecomponents while the terminations are “captured” within the collector.

The embodiments disclosed achieve these objectives. However, thoseskilled in th art will realize that many other forms of hardware couldbe used to carry out the invention. Although the preceding descriptioncontains significant detail, it should not be construed as limiting thescope of the invention but rather as providing illustrations of thepreferred embodiments of the invention. Thus, the language used in theclaims shall define the invention rather than the specific embodimentsprovided.

Having described my invention, I claim:
 1. A method for terminating acable having a central axis, said cable including a plurality of strandsmade of synthetic filaments, with at least a portion of said strandsbeing non-parallel with respect to said central axis, comprising: a.straightening a portion of said cable to form a straight portion; b. c.cutting each of said plurality of strands of said cable within saidstraight portion so that each of said plurality of strands has a cutend; d. splaying said strands apart in order to gain access to a cut endon each of said strands; e. providing a plurality of anchors; f.attaching said anchors of said plurality of anchors to at least aportion of said strands; g. providing a collector; h. attaching each ofsaid anchors to said collector, with each of said anchors and saidcollector being in alignment while each of said anchors and saidcollector are in an attached state; and i. providing an attachmentfeature on said collector, wherein said attachment feature facilitatesconnection of said collector to an external component.
 2. A method forterminating a cable as recited in claim 1, wherein: a. at least aportion of said strands are helically wrapped around said central axis;and b. said attachment between each of said anchors and said collectormaintains said alignment by including an angular offset which is equalto said helix angle.
 3. A method for terminating a cable as recited inclaim 1, wherein said cable includes at least one core strand which isparallel to said central axis and a plurality of strands which arenon-parallel to said central axis.
 4. A method for terminating a cableas recited in claim 1, wherein during said step of attaching saidanchors to said strands, each of said anchors and said strand to whichsaid anchor is being attached are held within an alignment fixture.
 5. Amethod for terminating a cable as recited in claim 1, wherein saidattachment between each of said anchors and said collector is made by:a. providing an anchor receiver in said collector; and b. placing saidanchor in said anchor receiver.
 6. A method for terminating a cable asrecited in claim 1, wherein said attachment between each of said anchorsand said collector is made using a ball and socket joint.
 7. A methodfor terminating a cable as recited in claim 1, wherein said attachmentbetween each of said anchors and said collector is made by a first pivotjoint, and a second pivot joint which is perpendicular to said firstpivot joint.
 8. A method for terminating a cable having a central axis,said cable including a plurality of strands made of synthetic filaments,with at least a portion of said strands being non-parallel with respectto said central axis, comprising: a. straightening a portion of saidcable to form a straight portion; b. applying a binder to said cableproximate said straight portion; c. cutting each of said plurality ofstrands of said cable within said straight portion so that each of saidplurality of strands has a cut end; d. splaying said strands apart inorder to gain access to a cut end on each of said strands; e. providinga plurality of anchors; f. providing at least one alignment fixture g.attaching said anchors of said plurality of anchors to at least aportion of said strands while maintaining alignment between each of saidanchors and said strand to which said anchor is being attached byplacing each anchor and each strand into said alignment fixture duringsaid attachment process; h. removing said alignment fixture; i.providing a collector; j. attaching each of said anchors to saidcollector, with said attachment between each of said anchors and saidcollector maintaining said alignment between said anchor and said strandto which said anchor is attached; and k. providing an attachment fixtureon said collector, wherein said attachment fixture facilitatesconnection of said collector to an external component.
 9. A method forterminating a cable as recited in claim 8, wherein: a. at least aportion of said strands are helically wrapped around said central axis;and b. said attachment between each of said anchors and said collectormaintains said alignment by including an angular offset which is equalto said helix angle.
 10. A method for terminating a cable as recited inclaim 8, wherein said cable includes at least one core strand which isparallel to said central axis and a plurality of strands which arenon-parallel to said central axis.
 11. A method for terminating a cableas recited in claim 8, wherein said attachment between each of saidanchors and said collector is made by: a. providing an anchor receiverin said collector; and b. placing said anchor in said anchor receiver.12. A method for terminating a cable as recited in claim 8, wherein saidattachment between each of said anchors and said collector is made usinga ball and socket joint.
 13. A method for terminating a cable as recitedin claim 8, wherein said attachment between each of said anchors andsaid collector is made by a first pivot joint, and a second pivot jointwhich is perpendicular to said first pivot joint.
 14. A method forterminating a cable having a central axis, said cable including aplurality of strands made of synthetic filaments, with at least aportion of said strands being non-parallel with respect to said centralaxis, comprising: a. straightening a portion of said cable to form astraight portion; b. cutting each of said plurality of strands of saidcable within said straight portion so that each of said plurality ofstrands has a cut end; c. splaying said strands apart in order to gainaccess to a cut end on each of said strands; d. providing a plurality ofanchors; e. attaching said anchors of said plurality of anchors to atleast a portion of said strands; f. providing a collector; g. providingan alignment fixture, said alignment fixture including at least onestrand engagement feature; h. attaching said alignment fixture to saidcollector; i. attaching each of said anchors to said collector; j.engaging at least one of said strands with said at least one strandengagement fixture in said alignment fixture; and h. providing anattachment feature on said collector, wherein said attachment featurefacilitates connection of said collector to an external component.
 15. Amethod for terminating a cable as recited in claim 14, wherein: a. atleast a portion of said strands are helically wrapped around saidcentral axis; and b. said attachment between each of said anchors andsaid collector maintains said alignment by including an angular offsetwhich is equal to said helix angle.
 16. A method for terminating a cableas recited in claim 14, wherein said cable includes at least one corestrand which is parallel to said central axis and a plurality of strandswhich are non-parallel to said central axis.
 17. A method forterminating a cable as recited in claim 14, wherein during said step ofattaching said anchors to said strands, each of said anchors and saidstrand to which said anchor is being attached are held within analignment fixture.
 18. A method for terminating a cable as recited inclaim 14, wherein said attachment between each of said anchors and saidcollector is made by: a. providing an anchor receiver in said collector;and b. placing said anchor in said anchor receiver.
 19. A method forterminating a cable as recited in claim 14, wherein said attachmentbetween each of said anchors and said collector is made wing a ball andsocket joint.
 20. A method for terminating a cable as recited in claim14, wherein said attachment between each of said anchors and saidcollector is made by a first pivot joint, and a second pivot joint whichis perpendicular to said first pivot joint.
 21. A method for terminatinga cable as recited in claim 1, wherein said attachment between at leasta portion of said anchors and said collector includes a tensionadjustment.
 22. A method for terminating a cable as recited in claim 21,wherein said tension adjustment allows tension on at least two strandsto be adjusted individually.
 23. A method for terminating a cable asrecited in claim 21, wherein said tension adjustment for each of saidanchors includes a load sensing device.
 24. A method for terminating acable as recited in claim 24, wherein said tension adjustment for eachof said anchors includes a load sensing device.